The drama is slowly starting to build as the playoff picture tightens up big time. Who stepped up in this crucial week of the season? Let’s find out.
Jake Ferguson
In a Thursday Night thriller, both of the quarterbacks, lead running backs, and number one wideouts on the Seahawks and Cowboys fought closely to out duel each other. Jake Ferguson clearly won the tight end battle. Ferguson caught six passes for 77 yards and the touchdown that proved to be the game winner in a 41-35 Cowboys win.
Khalil Mack
In the defensive slugfest that summed up all defensive slugfests, the Chargers came out on top by a 6-0 score against the Patriots. Of the Chargers’ five sacks, Mack had two, the third consecutive time which he has reached that mark. That’s six sacks in his last three games and 15 on the year (six of which came against the Raiders at home).
Devon Achane
Devon Achane had a triumphant return to the field against Washington. Achane ran for two touchdowns and 73 yards and also recorded 30 receiving yards. Achane did his part in a strong 45-15 Dolphins victory.
Will Anderson Jr.
We have talked a lot about Houston’s stunning second overall selection, CJ Stroud. But in case you forgot about their third overall selection, he put up a big performance against the Broncos. Will Anderson Jr. sacked Russell Wilson twice and tipped a pass that led to an interception as the Texans scraped a 22-17 win at home.
Gardner Minshew
The Colts came out on top in a 31-28 overtime thriller against the Titans in Nashville, and a big part of that was Gardner Minshew, who passed for 312 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner to Michael Pittman Jr.
Sam LaPorta
The Lions will be thankful that Sam LaPorta turned up big time in their 33-28 win over New Orleans. LaPorta caught 9 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown, staking his claim as the best rookie tight end this season.
Jessie Bates
Every defensive play was crucial for Atlanta as they defeated the Jets 13-8 at MetLife. Jessie Bates led the way, leading the team in tackles with 7 and recording the only interception of the game.
James Conner
James Conner went into Pittsburgh, overcame a weather delay, and haunted his old team in the Cardinals’ upset win. Conner went on a tear, rushing for 105 yards and two touchdowns as Arizona won 24-10.
Mike Evans
Mike Evans put on yet another masterclass for Tampa. His 7-catch, 162-yard performance, which included a 75-yard touchdown, helped him become just the second receiver in NFL history to reach 1,000 yards in ten consecutive seasons. The Bucs held on to defeat the Panthers 21-18, officially eliminating Carolina from playoff contention.
Puka Nacua
Puka Nacua had a very efficient game against the Browns. He only touched the ball six times, but it resulted in 34 rushing yards and 105 receiving yards, including a 70-yard touchdown. The Rams rode Nacua’s performance to a 36-19 win that puts them in a great position to make the playoffs.
Brock Purdy
The 49ers went into Philly as slight favorites, but came out big-time winners instead. Brock Purdy passed for 314 yards and 4 touchdowns on 19 completions, as San Francisco destroyed the Eagles 42-19. His performance helps tighten the race for the NFC’s number one seed.
Jordan Love
Jordan Love followed up his Thanksgiving showcase with a prime time showcase in front of Taylor Swift. Love passed for 267 yards and two touchdowns as the Packers held on to defeat the Chiefs 27-19.
Jake Browning
No one expected former Washington QB Jake Browning to go off, but here we are. Browning completed 32/37 passes for 354 yards and a touchdown whilst also running for 22 yards and a touchdown. The Bengals came back from behind three times and won 34-31 in an overtime finish versus Jacksonville.